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The Health Service Executive (HSE) has today inaugurated a cutting-edge Emerging Drug Trend laboratory at the National Drug Treatment Centre (NDTC) in Dublin. This facility aims to enhance the HSE’s capability in monitoring drug contents, purity, and potency, which is crucial for responding to evolving drug trends and market changes, thereby supporting the health and safety of individuals who use drugs.

The new laboratory is equipped with advanced forensic technology, including a gas chromatography-mass spectrometer (GC-MS) and a mobile FT-IR spectrometer. The GC-MS is a sophisticated analytical method that combines gas chromatography and mass spectrometry to identify various substances within a sample, regarded as the gold standard in forensic drug analysis. Meanwhile, the FT-IR spectrometer provides precise identification of substances through their infrared spectrum, making it an invaluable portable tool for organisations such as customs, police, and festival drug-checking services.

The laboratory’s staff ensure efficient operation and accurate results, contributing significantly to the HSE’s Safer Nightlife programme. The mobile FT-IR technology has already been effectively utilised to identify harmful high-strength substances through ‘back of house’ drug-checking services at festivals.

Colm Burke TD, Minister of State with special responsibility for Public Health, Wellbeing, and the National Drugs Strategy, officially opened the laboratory. He emphasised the importance of preparedness in tackling new drug threats, stating:

“The landscape of drug use in Ireland and Europe is rapidly evolving, presenting new challenges to public health. It is vital that we increase our preparedness to identify and react to these new threats. This new laboratory, funded by the Department of Health, will help to protect the health and safety of those who use illicit substances. It will also enhance Ireland’s contribution to the new EU Drugs Agency’s remit to foster information exchange on new trends and developments in Europe.”

Bill Ebbitt, General Manager at the HSE National Drug Treatment Centre, highlighted the lab’s role in providing timely and accurate information on dangerous substances and emerging drug trends. He noted:

“Understanding what’s happening in real-time allows us to offer relevant, effective support to people who use drugs and healthcare professionals, making a significant difference in people’s lives.”

The NDTC laboratory, established in 1969, adheres to the highest standards of testing quality and reliability. It offers comprehensive addiction services, including opioid substitution treatment and support for complex needs with specialist psychiatric, psychological, counselling, social, and medical services.

Supporting various stakeholders such as HSE addiction services, hospitals, GPs, voluntary organisations, and several governmental and educational bodies, the NDTC’s drug testing service is vital for service planning, monitoring trends, and facilitating evidence-based practice in drug treatment and prevention.